Welcome to The White Shire Podcast, where I celebrate the makers, growers, and craftspeople who help keep Yorkshire’s heritage alive. I’m Michael, and each episode I take you behind the scenes of the small, hardworking businesses that give our county its character — the people who still believe in doing things properly, with care, craft, and a real connection to the land.

Today, I’m sharing the story of a family‑run business that’s become a personal favourite of mine. It’s rooted in the countryside, shaped by the seasons, and built on simple, honest values. This is Herd & Hive — and they’re a perfect example of what makes Yorkshire craft so special.

Welcome back to the podcast. I’m Michael from MP Landscape and Garden Design, and today I’m diving into one of my favourite topics in garden structure design — timber pergolas and garden arches. These features do far more than frame a view or hold up a climbing rose. When they’re designed properly, they shape the way you move through a garden, create atmosphere, and add real architectural presence to an outdoor space.In this episode, I’ll be talking through how I design pergolas and arches for my clients, the practical considerations that go into choosing the right timber, and the subtle design decisions that make these structures feel intentional rather than just “added on”. Whether you’re looking to create shade, define a route, or add a focal point that draws the eye, timber structures can completely transform the character of a back garden.So settle in — and let’s explore how pergolas and arches can bring structure, style, and a touch of craftsmanship to your outdoor living space.

Welcome to the MP Landscape & Garden Design podcast, where we talk about creating outdoor spaces that actually work for the way you live. Today we’re diving into one of our favourite topics — canopies. Not just the practical side, but how the right canopy can completely transform a back garden into a space you can enjoy all year round. From sheltering you from the Yorkshire rain to creating a cosy spot for cooking, relaxing, or entertaining, canopies are one of the most versatile features you can add to a garden. We’ll walk you through the options, the materials, the design choices, and a few real examples of how a well‑designed canopy can bring a garden to life.